50,000 hospital workers took part in the action at over 80 hospitals and 32 polyclinics.

On November 20, Wednesday, hundreds of thousands of medics, including doctors, nurses, lab technicians and hospital assistants across the Netherlands went on a national strike demanding better working conditions and a 5% hike in wages. The call for the strike was given by the Netherlands Trade Union Confederation (FNV).

According to reports, 150,000 hospital workers took part in the action at over 80 hospitals and 32 polyclinics. Massive rallies were also taken out in major Dutch cities by the medics and supporters of the strike.

FNV president Han Busker said that the medics were on strike for legitimate demands, including decent wages and a less intense work environment .

The Dutch Labour Party (PvdA) expressed support and solidarity with the strike and the demands raised by the medics. The party also initiated an online support campaign #HartjeZorg, calling for the fulfillment of the demands of the medics.

PvdA said, “While the people in the workplace are in danger of going under, the money for healthcare remains on the shelf. Healthcare workers do their work with passion and are always available for a modest salary. But due to a lack of staff, the workload is very high. The cabinet must give the indispensable workers in the care sector the appreciation they deserve”.